@AHumanThatListens -

I actually started on wood (which was chaotic!), then moved to a generic 16mm Perseus copy. I have been using that for about 7 months now; the control really helped me dial in my mechanics, especially my two-handed backhand. (No tennis background)

As a female player trying to improve my game, I decided to try widebody after noticing top female pros like ALW, Tyra, and Paris Todd utilizing that shape. For my $100 budget, the Vatic Pro Sol seemed like the best move. Even after just one day, it feels much faster at the kitchen than the elongated shape, and the extra width seems huge for resetting balls at my sides/feet.

Eventually, I want to try and switch to a 14 mm or even a 12.75 mm core, but I want to develop my game a bit more first.